Are you looking for a new home? Today’s real estate market can be intimidating and deciding to buy a home for the first time is one of the biggest decisions you will ever make. For most of us it will mean that we will need to apply for a mortgage. That can be a daunting task but it does not have to be if you understand what is important.

Your mortgage broker will help you through the process and will likely help you to understand that there are some guidelines that will be used to determine how much you can borrow. Generally, there are two basics guidelines that your mortgage broker will consider:

Will you mortgage payment fall within 25-28% of your gross monthly income? That payment typically includes principal, interest, taxes and insurance (PITI).

Additionally, your monthly expenses should not exceed 33 to 38%.

I am not a mortgage broker, so these are general guidelines based on my personal experiences. You situation is different and your mortgage broker will help you to understand the specifics in your own case.

Other factors that will decide your ability to qualify for a home loan. Your credit history, income, assets, and the home that you intend to purchase all have a bearing on the amount of loan you can get.